**As a definition from Google: ‘Workation (created by combining the words work and vacation) is a recent travel trend that means working in a usual mode while traveling long-term. This option became popular with the growing transition to remote working during the COVID-19 pandemic.’
Since then, as remote work becomes more prevalent, travellers are seeking destinations that offer a combination of professional productivity and leisure activities. Travel advisors play a crucial role in helping clients plan and book ‘workation’ packages that meet their specific needs.
Understanding Workation Packages
Workation packages typically include accommodation that offers clients workspace facilities, and often amenities like Wi-Fi, printing services, and meeting rooms. They are designed to cater to both work and leisure needs, providing a comfortable and productive environment while allowing travellers to explore new destinations.
Key Considerations for Travel Advisors
When assisting clients in selecting workation packages, consider the following factors:
1. Client Needs:
> Work Requirements: Discuss with your clients to assess their specific work needs, such as the need for quiet spaces, access to specific software, or meeting facilities, and other work related amenities.
> Leisure Interests: Find out what the client's leisure preferences are, whether it's exploring local attractions, relaxing on the beach, or engaging in outdoor activities in between their working activities.
> Budget: You need to additionally find out what thee client's budgets are for accommodation, flights, and additional expenses.
2. Destination Selection:
> Work-Friendly Environment: Investigate and choose destinations with reliable internet connectivity, co-working spaces, and a supportive infrastructure for remote workers.
> Leisure Activities: Consider the client's interests after in depth discussions, and select destinations that offer a variety of activities, such as cultural attractions, natural beauty, or adventure sports.
> Cost of Living: Factor in the cost of living in different destinations to help clients make informed decisions about their budget.
3. Accommodation Options:
>Hotels and Resorts: Many hotels and resorts now offer dedicated workspaces, such as meeting and conference rooms, and suitable work related amenities tailored to remote workers.
> Serviced Apartments: Serviced apartments, and villa rentals provide more spacious accommodations and often include kitchen facilities for self-catering.
> Co-Living Spaces: Depending on your client’s preferences and perhaps needs for a more social experience, consider co-living spaces that offer shared communal areas and social events.
4. Additional Services:
> Transportation: Ask whether they would like you to arrange transportation to and from the airport or train station, as well as local transportation options.
> Activities: Suggest activities and excursions that can be incorporated into the workation, such as guided tours, cooking classes, or outdoor adventures.
> Support Services: Ask whether they would like any support services, such as visa assistance, travel insurance, or local recommendations.
Crafting the Perfect Workation Package
To create a personalized workation package, travel advisors can:
- Conduct a Detailed Consultation: You need to firstly gather all the necessary information about the client's needs, preferences, and budget as mentioned above.
- Research Destinations: Research online to identify destinations that align with the client's requirements and offer a balance of work and leisure. Your partner DMCs can help in this case.
- Select Accommodations: Choose suitable accommodations that provide the necessary work amenities and facilities for both work and relaxation.
- Create a Customized Itinerary: Develop a detailed itinerary that includes work-related activities, leisure activities for breaks, and necessary travel arrangements.
- Provide Ongoing Support: Offer ongoing support throughout the trip, including assistance with any changes or unexpected issues.
Workation packages offer a unique opportunity for travellers to combine work and leisure, and often some businesses even provide these get-aways for their staff.
Fully discuss requirements with your clients to learn about their needs, allowing for researching destinations, and providing personalized support. Travel advisors specializing or catering for this niche can help clients create memorable and productive workation experiences.
As the remote work trend continues to grow, the demand for workation packages is likely to increase, making it a valuable area of focus for travel advisors.
